Looking to reach a healthy weight? Snacks can actually help you meet your goals. Choosing well-balanced snacks and eating them at the right times can keep you from getting too hungry.
This way you’ll be more likely to make healthy choices at mealtime! They can also give you an extra chance in your day to consume important nutrients.
Follow the 3 W’s
When: Do you feel super hungry if you go more than 4 or 5 hours between breakfast and lunch, or between lunch and dinner? Then it’s a good idea to plug in a small snack. If mealtime is in sight, you can hold off. Everyone’s body clock is a little different, so figure out what makes sense for you.
What: Snacks that include both produce, like a fruit or veggie, and protein, like plain Greek yogurt or a little low-fat cheese, are the best combo. Produce is a good source of fiber, which helps fill you up. Protein takes longer to digest, so you’ll feel satisfied for longer.
Where: Anywhere you can sit down, focus, and take a moment to enjoy. When you’re distracted, your body sends fewer signals to the brain that it is getting full. In those moments, you may need more food to feel satisfied! So sit down, put your phone or computer away, turn off the TV, and eat.
These simple guidelines will help you make wise snacking choices that support your health goals.
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